biography

  • The Bracken-Grissom Lab is fundamentally interested in the evolution of marine invertebrates with an emphasis in decapod crustaceans. Specifically, our present research combines molecular, morphological and fossil evidence to gain insights into evolutionary relationships (phylogeny/phylogenomics), biogeography, biodiversity, ecology, origins and diversification of crabs, lobsters and shrimp. As part of this research, we have been developing and applying novel methods for DNA sequencing using next-generation technology. More recently, we have been exploring visual systems and structures involved in marine bioluminescence using deep-sea shrimp as model organisms.

research interests

  • Evolutionary relationships (phylogeny/phylogenomics), biogeography, biodiversity, ecology, origins and diversification of crabs, lobsters and shrimp

selected scholarly works & creative activities

chaired theses and dissertations

principal investigator on

investigator on

full name

  • Heather Bracken-Grissom

visualizations